Bruno Fernandes stole the show against Uruguay, as he scored both of the goals that allowed Portugal qualification for the knockout stages of the World Cup. It was a far too conservative approach from Uruguay throughout the first seventy minutes of the match, but Diego Alonso’s substitutions rejuvenated his side enough to make the match […]
One of the most anticipated group stage matches when the World Cup draw was made was Iran vs USA, but when the day of the game came, its importance was much greater than anyone would have expected. Iran’s late win over Wales meant that this was a must-win match for the USA if they wished […]
Morocco marked a memorable day in their history as they overcame Belgium against the odds. The 2022 World Cup witnessed another upset, and this time Roberto Martínez’s world number two side struggled to create chances against a well-marshaled Moroccan outfit. In the end, goals from Abdelhamid Sabiri and Zakaria Aboukhlal piled on Belgium’s misery. Tactical […]
England dominated possession in the first half against a relatively passive Wales defense, but it took them until the second half to break the deadlock via Marcus Rashford’s free-kick. After that, things were relatively easy for England against a lacklustre Wales team as Phil Foden and Rashford added further goals. Tactical analysis and match report […]
After a slow start and great opposition pressure, Brazil solved passing issues down their left side to win. Sound familiar? The title may suggest a sequel, but Brazil had to problem-solve in a new way with a Neymar-less void in their attack. Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker. Though famous for their […]
If adversity is the measure of character, the Germans had to live up to their reputation in this contest. They did. In a high-caliber clash, the suffering at the hands of the Spanish broke but did not kill their spirit. And with some help from the bench, they secured a desirable outcome. Tactical analysis and […]
Ecuador outwitted the Dutch with perfect tactical adjustments, and completely overpowered them on the pitch. An early Dutch goal papered over the cracks, but from that moment on, Ecuador’s mix of astute tactics and impressive individual performances completely nullified their opponent. In the end Ecuador was left with hearts, minds and a single point. And […]
Trials and tribulations continue to torment the Germans at tournaments. The spanner in the works of an opening matchday defeat at a third major competition in a row has placed the country at risk of an abrupt exit at the group stage phase. This preview explores how history has repeated itself and why so many […]
The struggles of Argentina to progress the ball when they had possession combined with a determined Mexico defense meant that very little was created in this game. In the second half though, Lionel Messi’s strike from distance put Argentina ahead, and they were able to defend their lead with relative ease before Enzo Fernández added […]
The big Group D fixture in the second round of fixtures saw the two European sides square off. After Tunisia’s loss to Australia, France knew that a win here would see them through to the knockouts and almost guarantee first place in their group. It took them a while, but with the contribution of one […]